N.H. Union Leader, Manchester, New Hampshire

New Hampshire is in the midst of a public health crisis. The opioid epidemic has killed thousands, partly fueled by critical issues in the treatment of mental health. Plenty has been written about the problems, now help us shed a light on the next chapter: solutions. We are looking for a newshound who can raise public awareness about promising approaches to the crisis through this grant-funded, year-long solutions journalism series. You should have news experience, social media skills and a demonstrated ability to dig deep.

We expect the reporter to produce steady, top-notch coverage over the course of the series to engage readers in a deeper understanding of the issues and help create a growing interest in constructive ways to solve problems. The project will culminate in a public convening, which the reporter will help organize along with event staff from the Union Leader.

This position is funded by a one-year grant from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, Dartmouth-Hitchcock health system and private donors.

The reporter will be trained in and use the practice of solutions journalism to raise public awareness about promising approaches to the opioid epidemic and its interplay with the state’s mental health crisis. The reporter will use a solutions-based reporting model to raise awareness of key issues in New Hampshire, comparing and contrasting local approaches with outcomes being achieved elsewhere in the state and the nation.

Through the course of the year, the reporter will identify and travel to locations outside New Hampshire that illustrate attempts to solve similar problems. A travel budget will be provided.

The reporter will focus exclusively on these issues except for the rare case of major breaking news.

Candidates need to know how to tell a story online, in print and with their camera. Ideal candidates will have daily journalism experience, with solid news judgment, impeccable accuracy and strong photography skills. Familiarity with AP style is mandatory.

Candidates should expect to work at our Manchester, N.H. office for much of their time. A small relocation package is negotiable.

Send a cover letter with salary requirements, resume, and writing/photography samples to Executive Editor Trent Spiner by email: tspiner@unionleader.com. Please use “Behavioral and Addiction Reporter” in the subject line.

When applying, mention you saw this opening listed at JournalismJobs.com.